Tourism New Zealand welcomes record spending levels by tourists

Tourism New Zealand is welcoming today’s Tourism Satellite Account and its confirmation of the significant value tourism offers to New Zealand’s economic and social prosperity.

Chief Executive Kevin Bowler says the industry is a cornerstone of this country’s economy and its impact on the lives of all New Zealanders cannot be underestimated.

“These latest figures show that one in eight New Zealanders are directly or indirectly employed in tourism. The industry supports us to both protect and share our natural and cultural heritage, it helps strengthen New Zealand’s diversity and it drives our economy.

“For the year ending March 2015, international tourists pumped $11.8 billion into the New Zealand economy, an increase of 17.1 percent on the previous year. It is the highest level of international tourism expenditure since the statistics began in 1999.

“The industry is currently experiencing remarkable growth and as we approach our traditional peak season it’s clear that the industry is a significant contributor to the lives of all New Zealanders.”